At Fat Tiger Think Tank, we bridge research with real-world execution, ensuring businesses, governments, and policymakers have the data, analysis, and strategic frameworks they need to thrive in an evolving global economy.
R&D Spending, Competitive Advantage, and Firm Performance in Thailand
Investment in research and development (R&D) plays a pivotal role in enhancing Thai firms’ competitiveness and overall performance. Evidence from 151 private companies indicates that R&D spending does not directly influence firm performance but exerts a significant positive effect when mediated by competitive advantage.
Roles of Geographical Heterogeneity on Income Distribution: Empirical Evidence from Thailand
Thailand faces persistent regional income disparities shaped by geographical heterogeneity, according to an empirical study analyzing data from national household surveys and satellite imagery. Using Mincer’s earnings function and the Generalized Method of Moments (GMM), the research found that income levels vary significantly across provinces, with the central region—driven by manufacturing and services—outperforming the agriculture-dependent northern and northeastern regions. Night-time light intensity, used as a proxy for economic activity, confirmed these spatial disparities, showing strong income clustering in Bangkok and surrounding provinces.
Branding Strategy in Indonesia
Branding in Indonesia plays a crucial role in establishing competitive advantage for businesses navigating the country’s culturally diverse and dynamic market. Success depends on a deep understanding of local consumer behavior, values, and market trends.
The Double-Edged Sword: Unintended Consequences of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprise Promotion Policy
Thailand’s introduction of a B30-million revenue cap in 2011 to qualify for SME tax incentives has had significant unintended consequences, according to a study by the Asian Development Bank (EWP 778). Using data from all registered Thai firms, it shows that the policy led to pronounced bunching behavior just below the threshold, with firms adjusting operations to maintain SME status.
Indonesia's Strategic Dependencies
Indonesia’s pursuit of becoming an advanced economy by 2045 is challenged by concentrated trade, investment, and supply chain dependencies that heighten its exposure to geopolitical and economic shocks.
A Brief Note on Thailand Household Debt Dynamics, Fisher Effects, and Monetary Policy Transmission
Thailand’s experience illustrates the intricate relationship between monetary policy and household debt, examined through a framework that separates changes in debt into net new borrowing and the Fisher effect. Findings show that monetary policy generates intertemporal trade-offs: while easing measures can relieve short-term debt burdens, they also stimulate long-term debt accumulation.
Herd Behavior and Firm-Specific Information
Thailand exhibits clear signs of aggregate herd behavior in its equity market, particularly during times of financial turbulence and negative market returns. The study finds that firm-specific information—measured through return residual, return skewness, and information discreteness—plays a pivotal role in shaping such behavior.
The Study of Economic Growth and Tourism Industry in Thailand
Thailand’s economic growth from 1995 to 2019 was strongly influenced by tourism revenue, visa exemption policies, and trade flows, all of which showed significant positive correlations with GDP, while unemployment had a negative impact.
The Minimum Wage Effects on Earnings and Sorting
Thailand’s introduction of a nationwide minimum wage hike in 2012–2013—an increase of over 40%—had significant impacts on worker earnings, employment dynamics, and the sorting between workers and firms.
Fat Tiger Think Tank Channel
Bringing you daily insights, news and updates straight to your phone.
Our Think Tank Focus Areas
Fat Tiger Think Tank is a dedicated research and advisory hub that drives strategic insights for businesses expanding into Southeast Asia.
Our think tank delivers cutting-edge market analysis, policy insights, and industry-specific research tailored to help companies navigate Thailand's evolving economy and other high-growth ASEAN markets.
📌 Geopolitical & Economic Research
Providing deep analysis on ASEAN and global economic trends to help businesses navigate regulatory landscapes, investment climates, and emerging opportunities.
📌 Industry Reports & Whitepapers
Data-driven insights into key industries—including technology, sustainability, infrastructure, and international trade.
📌 Market Entry & Business Intelligence
Through our Internationalisation Series and Trade Expos, we equip businesses with the insights, networks, and strategic roadmaps needed for cross-border success.